Jam Packd Wins Blueberry Boost Accelerator for Functional Fruit Spread

The winning entry, Jam Packd, aims to overhaul the $13 billion jam category by positioning the pantry staple as a health-focused product. Each serving provides 8g of collagen protein and 6–7g of prebiotic fiber, utilizing a concentrated blueberry base that requires two jars of fruit to produce. The startup, which also won the event's fan-favorite vote, plans to use the capital to fuel its transition from a direct-to-consumer model into national retail chains.

Blue Rascal Distillery took second place, receiving $10,000 to expand its line of blueberry-infused brandies and craft spirits. The competition, managed by the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council and the advisory firm VentureFuel, concluded an eight-week program designed to integrate emerging brands into the broader food and beverage industry. Judges from companies including Procter & Gamble and California Giant Berry Farms evaluated the finalists based on their market potential and ability to elevate blueberries as a key ingredient.